USPS Passport Photo

How much do passport photos cost at USPS?

According to the United States Postal Services (USPS) website, the price of passport photos is $15. USPS passport photo cost does not include the digital version.

USPS deals not only in mail services but also provides services related to passport applications.

The Post Office passport photo price of $15 includes the following services:

1. Capturing a biometric photo
2. Editing the photo according to US passport photo requirements
3. Printing two images

The process hardly takes half an hour, and you will be handed your photographs ready for the submission of your first-time passport applications.

A digital version of a passport photo can be obtained from USPS by paying a few extra dollars. It will help you save the future cost of taking a fresh picture. You can get a print of digital passport photos whenever you need it.

The cost of printing a digital photo template at USPS is comparatively less than taking a fresh photograph.

USPS also offers a passport service, allowing applicants to initiate their passport application via their post offices. For this, you need an appointment from your nearest location. The nearest post office location can be searched via their official website and by entering your ZIP code.

What is the passport photo size at USPS?

According to the website of the U.S. Department of State, the recommended dimensions of the USPS passport size photo are 2x2 inches (i.e., 51x51mm). The head size in the image should be between 1 – 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top portion of the head.

You should be a legal U.S. citizen to apply for a U.S. passport. Other special requirements are also available on the U.S. Department of State website.

US postal service passport photos comply with all regulatory requirements. The USPS office best suits visa seekers as it is a one-stop shop. People can get their passport photos at USPS while also submitting their passport applications, which is something that needs to be added at most convenience stores and pharmacies.

What are the basic USPS passport photo requirements?

The basic requirements for a passport photo at USPS are as follows. They can also be accessed at the U.S. Department of State website.

1. The image's dimensions should be 2 inches in width to 2 inches in height.
2. The image must be a colored print, not older than six months.
3. Take off your glasses while taking the photo.
4. The picture's background should be free from shadows, and color may range from white to off-white.
5. The facial expressions should be neutral – a face with no smile and teeth is a better choice for a passport photo.
6. The face must be towards the lens of a camera. The eyes should be wide open to make them more visible.
7. The attire in the passport photo must not be extravagant or clothing belonging to a specific occupation, e.g., uniforms.
8. Do remove headphones, hats, or earbuds for a passport photo.
9. The requirements for baby and adult passport photos are the same, except that toddlers are allowed to smile/frown in a picture.

Additionally, you must apply in person if you are applying for a passport via USPS. The rule also applies to passport renewal applications.

How to print passport photos at USPS?

If you have a digital passport photo, printing it at USPS will save you money and time. To print passport pictures at the post office, bring the digital version of your passport photo on a USB drive or send it in digital form via email. Ask the Post Office staff to print out a 2x2 inches sized passport photograph for you.

However, make sure the regulations of US passport photos are met before taking the print. The USPS passport photo price for printing a digital version is less than that of taking a fresh photograph.

USPS passport photo locations near me

USPS operates thousands of locations throughout the United States. Not all locations offer passport photo services, so it is essential to check with the nearest location to confirm whether or not they offer the service. Some branches may also require an appointment, which can be scheduled online.

You can also check for the nearest USPS branch using Google Maps. The information provided may not be up to date, and prices and requirements might have changed, so it's always recommended to check the official website or contact the USPS office for the most recent information.

There is also a lot of need for clarification about whether you can receive a passport urgently by USPS priority mail. We will address this confusion in the heading below.

Applying for a Passport via USPS

USPS is a post office and a government-authorized facility for initiating your passport application. They can do everything from taking a compliant photo with expert verification from the U.S. State Department to sending your application to the passport offices.

Here's a stepwise guide for applying for a passport via USPS:

Locate a USPS Nearby

Using their website, locate a USPS facility by entering your ZIP code.

While USPS can initiate your passport application, they are not a passport acceptance facility. It means they don't have the authority to reject or accept your application.

Get an Application Form

There are two types of passport applications:

1. First-Time Passport Application
2. Passport Renewal Application

Choose the application type and fill out the form. Also, pick your choice for either collecting a passport in person or getting a passport by mail.

Pay Acceptance Fee

The passport acceptance fee ranges between $30 to $160, depending on urgency and the type of application. Pay the fee and post your application via USPS.

USPS Tracking

Once the application is posted, USPS has a delivery tracking service allowing applicants to track their applications.

How to take a passport photo at home using a phone?

Taking a passport photo at home is relatively easy, but a successful result is when your image complies with all the requirements of the US State Department. Here's how to take a perfect passport photo at home.

1. Camera Resolution: A smartphone camera with high resolution is suitable for capturing a picture for your passport. You can use a tripod stand with a timer to capture a photo. Otherwise, you can get help from a family member or friend to take your photograph.
2. Lighting: Choose the right place for your picture where necessary light for a photo is available. You can use flash if the lighting is not suitable. The photograph should be free from any shadow.
3. Background Color: Be careful about the background color. It should be white or off-white. You can use a light wall, sheet, or green screen.
4. Clothing: The clothes can be of your choice. The only restriction about clothing is to avoid wearing uniforms or any extravagant dress.
5. Jewelry: It's better to avoid wearing jewelry for a passport photograph. However, you can wear it if it does hide your face. The hair should be in such a position that it does not cover your face, especially your eyes.
6. Glasses: Glasses are not allowed for a US passport photo. Also, avoid wearing a hat or headgear.
7. Distance of Camera: The camera's distance from the face should be 5 – 7 feet. The person's upper body and shoulders should be in the frame.
8. No Smile: The face must be towards the camera, with eyes focusing on the lens. Neutral facial expressions with a closed mouth are preferable.
9. Take several shots: Take multiple shots with and without flash to help choose the best one for your passport photo. Do not use editing apps for your passport pictures, as it might lead to the rejection of your image.